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Volunteer-run cooperative Rame Renewable Energy (RRE) secured £40,000 for a number of research projects and reports after receiving assistance from the University of Exeter.

Staff at the University’s Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) worked with the cooperative, set up to combat the challenges of climate change and rising energy prices, to access funding and academic support.

Dr Dan Lash of the Centre for Energy and Environment produced a desk-based assessment of existing building stock and energy consumption across the five Rame Peninsula parishes after being commissioned by RRE. Methods of generating renewable energy were then assessed and prioritised on the basis of carbon emissions and potential economic, social and environmental impact.

Further support came from sustainable energy experts Anient Ltd, who carried out a series of in-depth studies of typical homes and commercial buildings on the Peninsula to establish which energy-saving measures would be most effective and economical.

The findings of this work have been disseminated at meetings for Rame residents – Dr Lash spoke at a recent event. The cooperative have also secured solar power for a local school.

RRE Chairman Dr Kevin Mattholie explained how the ESI has helped saying: “Working with the ESI gave us access to independent expertise to successfully attract funding. This allowed us to complete a baseline study, presenting the clear evidence and research that will enable RRE to move forward in developing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects across the Rame Peninsula.”